DWTS 2026: A US guide to premiere night two

The ballroom has a second opening-night appointment this week. Dancing with the Stars scheduled its season 35 premiere across September 15 and 16, 2026, with an 8 p.m. ET start on ABC and Disney+. For US viewers planning Wednesday's watch, that makes September 16 the second part of the launch, according to ABC's Good Morning America announcement.

The familiar faces guiding the season

Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough return as hosts. The judging panel brings back Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli. Those returning voices provide continuity while a new celebrity cast learns its way around the ballroom.

Julia Stiles brings a dance-film connection

One name drawing attention is Julia Stiles. Her arrival coincides with the 25th anniversary of Save the Last Dance, released in 2001. Former co-stars Kerry Washington and Sean Patrick Thomas sent supportive messages during her cast-reveal appearance. GMA's September 2 interview captures that reunion moment and her enthusiasm for taking part.

A professional dancer returns

Sharna Burgess is also back as a competing professional. This is her first competitive season on the show since season 30 in 2021, when she partnered with Brian Austin Green. She previously won with Bobby Bones in 2018. Her official GMA return announcement also confirms next-day episode streaming on Hulu.

Set up your viewing

Check your local ABC listing or the streaming app's episode tile before settling in; the announced time is Eastern. If you are catching up, start with the episode itself before opening performance clips or social feeds. Watching a full routine gives you room to notice the partnership and choreography before seeing everyone else's verdict.

Explore the key points in our Web Story.